My teaching philosophy and classroom practice

My teaching philosophy and classroom practice have been influenced by various learning theories over time. In the initial stages of my teaching career, I was significantly influenced by the behaviorism approach, which believes that knowledge is transmitted from the educator to the students through various instructional mediums. I found this approach particularly effective in the field of physical education, where students were provided with demonstrations and instructions to acquire specific skills. The idea was that they could master these skills through dedicated practice and repetition. Behaviorism is rooted in the theory of operant conditioning, as postulated by Skinner, which suggests that a specific skill can be acquired through repetitive practice and constructive feedback. As my teaching career progressed, I began to include constructivism theory and update my teaching techniques. This theoretical framework describes education as a dynamic process and highlights the idea that students gain knowledge by actively engaging with the subject matter, and the establishment of connections between their prior experiences and new knowledge. This strategy, in my opinion, represents a significant advancement in my teaching methods as I have observed that when learners assume an active role in their learning process, they are able to acquire information far more efficiently.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=OLpsVp7d34c

As a science teacher, I adopted constructivist principles in my teaching approach.I used techniques that enable the students develop their own theories, conduct assessments, and make conclusions instead of just depending on lectures.  For example, I organized a project with my chemistry students where they investigated the effects of pollutants on water quality. I  divided the students and guided them to develop research questions related to local water sources. They then designed experiments to test water samples, such as analyzing pH levels and the presence of pollutants. This project not only taught them about the chemical properties of pollutants but also encouraged collaboration and real data collection. It was a great example of how constructivism can enhance learning.

In my teaching experience, I have encountered the concept of connectivism, which recognizes the significance of digital networks in education. It emphasizes that education involves more than just traditional teaching methods; it is about learning through interaction within various networks. I incorporate a variety of digital tools in my teaching to give students new opportunities to connect to important sources of https://ie.pinterest.com/pin/319192692321738325/  information and learn with their classmates on different platforms. These digital tools enable students to visually represent a range of ideas and insights, fostering creativity and interdisciplinary exploration. Integrating various online and social media platforms into their learning has enriched the students’ experience. Sharing resources and engaging with others has sparked creativity, leading to a positive transformation in their learning process. This environment helps them develop skills such as teamwork, communication, and group projects. Connectivism demonstrates how learning can be facilitated through networks and allow students to learn from each other’s experiences and perspectives.

Project-based learning is an educational approach that is centered around the lives of children. Projects often involve real-life issues related to their health and well-being, which helps to encourage teamwork and develop social skills. In this approach, the teacher’s role is to guide rather than direct. Children explore their interests, ask questions, and draw conclusions. As an early childhood educator in Canada, I had the opportunity to implement project-based learning, which enriched my teaching method. I helped my students develop their projects by focusing on their interests and experiences. For instance, while working on a project to study wildlife, a student was eager to learn about different animals and also wanted to incorporate a research process by creating group posters, conducting experiments, and sharing findings with teammates. This practical and child-centered approach is crucial in developing thinking skills and fostering creativity by connecting with the real world. Observing their growth through this process is a great way to make connections with the world. From my perspective, it’s crucial to promote independence and curiosity in young learners to establish a learning routine.

During my teaching experience, my traditional teacher-centric approach has evolved into a holistic and student-centric learning experience focused on skills. By the integration of instructional technology and the utilization of diverse digital tools, I have aimed to enhance student participation and foster their creativity.

For this blog i have read-

Chapter 2: The nature of knowledge and the implications for teaching

Debunking bad learning theories

https://www.edutopia.org/article/bringing-project-based-learning-preschool/

Blog post 1

Educational technology, commonly referred to as EdTech, is a multidisciplinary field that involves the integrated use of computer hardware, software, and educational theory to facilitate and enhance the learning process.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Educational_technology.

It includes the creation of technologically dependent resources including digital learning platforms, virtual reality tools, and educational applications, as well as the scientific study of technology’s effects on education.Educators may construct dynamic learning environments that meet the requirements of a wide range of students with the help of these tools. The goals of education technology are to enhance pupil involvement, and develop their abilities for analytical thinking and problem-solving.

I I’ve read the chapter A short history of educational technology  that explains how very basic instruments like radios and chalk boards were a methods of traditional teaching approaches. However, there have been many changes in it and the most recent of these changes came about as a result of historical evolution, today it has become a highly technological digital platform that is more interactive and student-centered than it was in the past. Through my teaching experience, I have observed that modern digital platforms in education have played a significant role in fostering students’ critical thinking abilities.interior of a traditional style school classroom. interior of a traditional style school classroom. 3d render Classroom Stock Photo

https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/interior-of-a-traditional-style-school-classroom-gm1387660986-445537280?utm_campaign=srp_photos_limitedresults&utm_content=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pexels.com%2Fsearch%2Ftraditional%2520classroms%2520setting%2F&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=pexels&utm_term=traditional+classroms+setting

In the past, prior to the development of contemporary communication technology, radio and television were the main means of enabling one-way communication.Books and printed materials were foundational in the distribution of information. However, in contemporary educational environments, the integration of diverse high-tech tools, such as interactive whiteboards, educational apps, have contributed to a significant increase in active engagement among children. This shift has allowed for more dynamic and interactive learning experiences within the educational setting. In the constructivist approach to education philosophy, students gain knowledge via actively participating in innovative and investigation-based learning activities. Similarly, students in the connectivism approach use digital tools and a broad digital network to learn from one another’s experiences.

 

This chapter highlights the impact of digital platforms on enhancing the flexibility of education. During my teaching career in India, I have seen many children residing in remote areas encounter challenges in accessing coaching for competition preparation. However, the utilization of digital platforms and the internet enables them to engage in distance learning, thereby eliminating their educational barriers. The development of https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/building-robotic-car-for-school-assignment-gm1084488926-290987320?utm_campaign=srp_photos_limitedresults&utm_content=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pexels.com%2Fsearch%2Fmodren%2520classrooms%2520with%2520digital%2520tools%2F&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=pexels&utm_term=modren%20classrooms%20with%20digital%20tools

educational technology has been consciously and unconsciously influenced by the historical progression of diverse technical tools.

In the article The 10 worst edtech debacles of the decade the author talked about a number of ed-tech challenges that have emerged during the past decade.The adoption of educational technology has resulted in a considerable disparity between affluent and underprivileged backgrounds, leading to unequal access to technology. This has made it more challenging for children in schools with insufficient resources to make effective use of instructional technologies.Some online learning platforms, such as Massive Open Online Courses and AI Learning Systems, have failed to provide authentic information to students. Similarly, many education technology companies are not taking responsibility for safely collecting students’ personal information data, thereby putting their personal information and safety at risk.

Despite the advancements in technology, the article emphasizes the irreplaceable role of teachers in education. While technology has its place, the specific and effective teaching strategies employed by educators cannot be replicated by any form of technical tools. This article critically examines the historical progression of educational technology over recent decades and advocates for the adoption of an ethical framework in the integration of technology within educational contexts. It emphasizes the significance of preserving the pivotal role of teachers and human interaction alongside technological systems in the educational domain.